1st time poster. Driving a 2007 Prius, 150,000 miles. It's a hard worker like me, but interior has too much heat buildup. A dash cover might help, but the windshield conducts the sun - it's like a furnace. Are there any of the exterior visors/canopy/awning - type things you see on the classic cars and trucks? Any other thoughts would be appreciated.
Window tint will make a noticeable difference... Car cover will make an even bigger difference... Window covers for all windows (see priuschat store) will make the most difference but it takes a buncha time and effort to put them on and take them off everytime you park...
I made an EXTERNAL custom-shaped windshield reflective shade from the same material as regular ones (plastic bubble-rap kind with Aluminum film on both sides). The material in a roll can be bought at LOWES. I made the screen from pieces that were attached together with clear scotch tape. The first iteration design was on magnets that were attached with tape at the perimeter. It was holding very good but magnets started scratching the clear coat so now v2 is attached by blue painter's tape. Ugly but doesn't scratch the paint. EXTERNAL shade (I use it for both windshield and hatch) keeps car much cooler than internal shade. especially if you can crack the windows down a little. Good luck, - Alex PS: this is for the parked car of course
Are concerned with heat buildup while driving or while parked? Here is a thread with some general tips. How to Reduce MPG loss Because of A/C Use | PriusChat
If you can't park in a shadow (more precisely, where a shadow *will* be when you return to the car), a custom fitted Sunshade for the windshield can help a lot. Use one and park facing south or southwest. Even with no shade, if the Prius takes more than about 15 minutes to get comfortable then there may be a problem with the A/C.
